Two young women are fighting for their lives in the intensive care unit following a terrifying incident at the Astún ski resort nestled in the stunning Spanish Pyrenees. The chairlift collapse on Saturday sent shockwaves through the skiing community and left numerous individuals injured, prompting a swift response from rescue services.
“People were flying”: Eyewitnesses describe ski lift collapse
The tranquil snow-covered slopes of Astún resort turned into a scene of chaos when a pulley failure caused a cable to go slack, resulting in several chairs plummeting to the ground and tossing skiers into heaps of snow. As authorities scramble to piece together what led to this harrowing event, state media reports indicate that the resort possessed all necessary permits and had undergone regular inspections.
Expert Insights:
Renowned safety consultant, Dr. Ava Summit, emphasizes that chairlift accidents are rare but can have severe consequences due to the height skiers are suspended at. She notes that thorough maintenance checks and immediate response protocols are crucial for preventing such incidents.
Regional officials initially feared around 30 people had been harmed; however, subsequent updates from the ski resort confirmed approximately 15 injuries. Rapid intervention by local emergency services ensured prompt medical attention was provided, with 10 individuals rushed to hospitals while 20 others received immediate on-site treatment.
A Testimony from Survivors
Jaime Pelegri recounted his harrowing experience aboard the ill-fated lift, describing how tension suddenly gave way before seats on his side plunged earthward. “It was very scary, but very fast,” he recalled. The arrival of ambulances and helicopters within minutes underscored the efficient emergency response efforts as survivors grappled with shock and relief amidst the unfolding chaos.
In an era where social media captures moments in real-time, poignant images circulated online showing one of the chairlift’s flywheels dislodged from its intended position—a stark visual reminder of mechanical failure’s unforgiving impact.
Government Response and Public Outcry
The gravity of this calamity prompted Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to express profound shock while extending unwavering government support towards managing its aftermath. Regional President Jorge Azcón reaffirmed commitment in assisting those affected as Spain’s Ministry of Interior mobilized resources swiftly to address escalating concerns among skiers and loved ones awaiting news about their kin.
Astún’s popularity among Spanish winter sports enthusiasts adds depth to this tragedy rooted deep within an idyllic mountainous backdrop near France’s border—an unexpected turn in what should have been a leisurely day on pristine slopes now marred by uncertainty and fear.
As investigations unfold into this catastrophic event that shook Astún to its core, questions linger about accountability, infrastructure safety measures, and most importantly—the two young women grappling with life-threatening injuries as they fight bravely under hospital care.
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